Representatives from the Shandong Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology, Peking University, and Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities pose for a photo. [Photo/ WeChat account: sdswltwx]

The Shandong Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology has launched a joint archaeological project in Egypt with Peking University and Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities, focusing on the Tell-Aziz site in Memphis.

The project was initiated on Oct 27, with Shandong's Cultural and Tourism Chief Yu Jianan and Peking University's Archaeology Dean Shen Ruiwen meeting Egypt's Antiquities Secretary-General Mohammed Ismail Khalid. Yu said that this joint effort will enhance academic comparisons between early Chinese and Egyptian civilizations and promote cooperation in archaeological concepts and techniques. It also marks Shandong's first overseas field archaeology work.

Shen highlighted Peking University's commitment to fostering cooperative relationships with Global South countries in cultural heritage preservation. The project is expected to lay the foundation for long-term Sino-African archaeological cooperation centered in Egypt.

Khalid expressed his support for the project, saying he hopes it will enrich the diversity of world civilizations and enhance cultural inclusiveness. Starting in October, the joint team will conduct over 100 days of excavation and research, aiming to deepen Sino-Egyptian archaeological exchanges.